do you know what i really like about you? he asks.
and because i've absolutely no idea, i reply, what's that?
it's the way you always touch me when we're having a conversation.
do i?
yeah, when you think something i've said is funny or moving or you're engaged in the moment or whatever. yeah, you do.
i guess i've never noticed that.
but that's what makes it so noticeable--so genuine. you're not trying after anything. it's just your natural reaction. and you don't just do it with me. it's with other people you're friends with too.
thanks.
it's like your gestures are the non-verbal punctuation of conversations. and i think it's an excellent thing about talking to you.

without thinking or formulating an adequate response, i reach out and touch his forearm. instantly we both laugh at this weird instinctual tendency of mine. and i say dumbly thank you, again.